Practice Creates Confidence in Meetings and on the Course
What looks like confidence is often preparation.
Great communicators rarely “wing it.” They rehearse mentally, clarify their intention, practice out loud, and anticipate questions. They may memorize the key points to help them remember. However, they do not memorize their entire talks. Why? Memorization comes across as rigid and robotic. When leaders align with their message and fully embrace it, they can speak more spontaneously and pivot without losing clarity.
Confidence is built long before the meeting begins.
The same applies on the golf course. Confidence stems from rehearsal, practice, and building muscle memory. That allows the player to show up on the tee box and execute the swing with certainty. Practice one or two swings and step up and swing! Don’t overthink what you need to do. Of course, that doesn’t always result in the desired outcome! As with leaders, confidence is built when practicing, long before the game begins.
Do you prepare before important conversations or meetings?
How can preparation reduce the pressure for you?
What’s one way you prepare before high-stakes conversations?
Reach out to me at LKWilner@successfully-speaking.comto learn more about how to SPEAK, SOUND, and LOOK Like a Leader.